Veteran actress and singer Lorna Luft chatted at The Renaissance Gala, which was held at the West Bank Café, as they celebrated the re-opening of the Laurie Beechman Theatre.
Tony-nominated producers Tom and Michael D’Angora are the new owners of the West Bank Café and Laurie Beechman Theatre. This event benefits Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS (BCEFA).
On being a part of “The Renaissance GALA” and re-opening of the Laurie Beechman Theatre, Luft exclaimed, “It feels great. I am so excited for everyone to come to the restaurant and the theatre.”
“Of course, I am so grateful that they are honoring and keeping the name of the Laurie Beechman Theatre because Laurie was extraordinary,” Luft added.
Significance of the Laurie Beechman Theatre venue
On the significance of the Laurie Beechman Theatre, Luft said, “It’s a gathering place when we are all doing shows.”
“We know that can come here and we can be at home. This is a home to a lot of us. Laurie was such an amazing talent and she was so extraordinary,” she noted.
“To see her legacy and talent go on and on is really important,” Luft underscored.
Luft performs ‘Cockeyed Optimist’ at the Laurie Beechman Theatre
Luft performed a soaring version of “Cockeyed Optimist” from the 1949 Rodgers and Hammerstein musical “South Pacific,” which was expressive and showcased her ability to nail the high notes.
Her performance of this Rodgers and Hammerstein classic. was controlled and superb from start to finish; moreover, it resonated well with the Laurie Beechman Theatre audience.
Luft also paid tribute to the Los Angeles County Firefighters who were battling the Los Angeles wildfires earlier this year (she revealed that her son-in-law, Patrick, is a proud Los Angeles County firefighter).
54 Below shows in April with Andrea McCardle
Earlier this month, Luft and Andrea McCardle performed two back-to-back shows (April 5th and 6th) at 54 Below in New York City. “The shows were great. Andrea and I had a great time,” Luft said.
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